A review by spygrl1
The Obituary Writer by Porter Shreve

1.0

This book just isn't quite right. I think the problem is, it begins as one type of story, and then veers into melodrama; the proper foundation hasn't been established, so the whole thing crumbles. I think too many disparate elements are swirling in the novel without being brought to any satisfactory resolution (or even a thorough exploration). Is the book about Gordie's vague dreams and unfocused aspirations? Is it about his excessive jealousy? Or is it suddenly, inexplicably, about psychosis and murder?